What if the violence, division, and dysfunction in our nation weren’t just political problems—but psychological ones?

In this soul-stirring episode of Vulnerability Muscle, host Reggie D. Ford sits down with psychotherapist and bestselling author Phyllis E. Leavitt to explore how healing personal trauma can transform not only individual lives, but also the collective soul of a nation. Drawing from over three decades of clinical experience and her latest book, America in Therapy, Phyllis shares how unhealed childhood trauma reverberates into adulthood, relationships, and even systems of power.

Together, Reggie and Phyllis unpack:

• The critical distinction between repression vs. suppression of trauma
• How trauma shows up in our behaviors, leadership, and culture
• Why the U.S. needs a psychological overhaul rooted in empathy and nonviolence
• The emotional impact of incarceration and systemic punishment
• How inner child healing can dismantle shame and self-hatred
• The importance of safe, compassionate spaces for transformation
• How to recognize the humanity inside perpetrators and victims alike

Phyllis speaks candidly about her own healing journey, growing up in a home of unspoken pain, and how therapy helped her reclaim her voice. Her call to action is clear: to heal America, we must first heal ourselves.

Guest Resources
Learn more about Phyllis and her work:
Website: www.phyllisleavitt.com
Books: America in Therapy, Into the Fire, A Light in the Darkness
Contact: [email protected]
Social: @phyllisleavitt (Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, Substack, YouTube)

Tune in for a masterclass in emotional truth, intergenerational trauma, and national healing.